Chapter 2: One of Those Days

Author Note:

Second chapter and well this was an interesting one to make. It's just going to be one of those days folks where you know things are going in a direction where you can't tell if its good or bad. I mean there are good parts of your day, but sometimes there is part in your day that just have you thinking. What this means, you have to figure out on your own as you read because if I say anymore then that will be just spoiling the chapter now will it? This is TheFoolOfTheNoon, signing off!

/

More days passed by and the Splatfest grew closer. It has since been revealed to be Sandwich Vs. Taco lovers which Spaz was elated at hearing because the big guy loved the former. So of course, he would choose that team, and as expected our main group became divided. Fix and Grey are on the Taco side which only left me and Inky to select our team.

"Like we do always?"

"Yep, close our eyes and let our arms decide honestly for ourselves!"

We did just that, we closed our eyes and on the count of three we shot our arms out and pressed the button. However, I didn't feel my hand on hers and vice versa. Slowly we opened our eyes and we saw that we ended up on separate teams. I was on the Sandwich team while she was on the Taco team. We both collectively gasped as this never really happened before. We always have ended up on the same team for all Splatfests we participated in so far. Looks like that streak ends today.

"Oh no! Lavink, we're on different teams!"

"Yeah, but I suppose it was bound to happen one day."

"Oooh, I wish it wasn't today!"

"It's okay Inky, this doesn't change a thing about us. As a matter of fact, it has been a while since I gone up against you in an actual Turf War."

"Oh yeah! Boy that was a long time ago! I guess there is no harm in it, I mean Splatfests are just for fun right? Besides this is reminding me of one of my favorite plays! Squidieo and Squidette!"

I personally think that play was cheesy as heck, but I'll put up with it for her.

"You do remember that both lovers die in that story right?" Grey reminded.

"Details, Details, what matters is that it was romantic!"

Grey looked like he wanted to say something more, but I visually told him not to by shaking my hand near my neck. He got the message and stayed silent while Inky gushed over some fantasies. It was embarrassing but hey that is Inky for you.

"Better stay alive out there soldier. You won't see me coming until after you splat."

"Dah, yes, comrade Fix is force to be reckon with. But, he is immovable object. I on the other hand is unstoppable force!"

"Or at least until someone splats you. Also doesn't Fix have a range advantage on you?"

"Bring it on Sandvich lover."

"I be bringing it Fix, and my weapon."

You can practically see the sparks between the two as their friendly rivalry ignited. I couldn't help but laugh at the display. As they ended the staring contest with a manly handshake. Although, my joy was short lived when I remembered that Grey is on the enemy team as well. I visibly gulped as I slowly turned my head towards him just to see he was looking at me.

"Relax Lavink, I'm not some kind of monster. I can be felled, just very rarely."

I think right now is a good time to delve into Grey's skill. As I said before, the squid is an expert with the H-3 Nozzlenose. A weapon that fires three shot burst that can instantly splat a target if all three shots connect. Its weakness is the firing rate and it is not very good at inking turf, but he makes it work. However, his biggest skill is his quickstep. In a nutshell, he can do a quick dodge without rolling. It's doesn't go very far, but then again, he doesn't need to.

"Easier said than done Grey."

"Don't sell yourself short Lavink. Just stay focused and you'll have chance."

I know that was to be supportive advice, but the grin on his face says that it wasn't going to help me. Sometimes I wonder why he get my hopes up.

/

Five turf wars later, we said our goodbyes for the day. We won three of the five battles and it was becoming a bit clearer what needs to be improved in our teamwork. Spaz and I need to do better in calling out targets and threats as Fix usually did that for him. Actually, most of the teamwork problem lies with our adjustment with working with members we don't usually team up with. Anyway, we tried fixing that in the next match with limited success, but it was progress none the less.

I gave Inky a loving hug and a goodbye kiss before going our separate ways for the day. I was still thinking of what to do for practice. I was thinking that we would split into separate groups and force ourselves to team up and improve coordination. It was a sound plan, it was just too bad I didn't check where I was going when I was thinking of it. As the next thing I knew, I ran into someone. The impact was enough to knock me and the other person to the ground, and I don't care what anyone says, landing on your butt still hurts!

"Ow...sorry, I wasn't paying attention where I was going."

"Argh...same here."

I shook off the dizziness from my head as I finally laid my eyes on the one person I never thought I would run into again, "Sashi?!"

My declaration caused her to look at me and freeze up, "Lavink?!"

You know that feeling that the entire weight of the universe is on your shoulders? Well take half of that and that is what I'm feeling at the moment. Neither of us made a move, we continued to sit there staring and pointing at each other with our mouths agape. For anyone passing by, we seem like a pair of weirdos that are pointing at each other for no reason. After a few minutes, we slowly got up from the ground, but still we did not break eye contact or say anything to each other. I mean, what do you say to a person who broke your heart? I'm not a mean guy or a jerk.

"So uh... how are you doing?" Real smooth dude, smooth as sand paper.

"Fine...you?"

"Doing good, me and everybody else are preparing for Splatfest. Are you joining the Splatfest?"

"Y-Yes..."

"Cool...what team are you on?"

"I uh...er...sorry I remember there was somewhere I need to be!" Very quickly she got up and ran.

I'm sure it was reflex but I reached out my arm in order to stop her, "Sashi wait!" However, it was too late as she was already around the corner and out of sight. I sighed as I got back on my feet and dusted myself off before going back on my walk back to my place of residence. One too many emotions were stirring in my mind and I needed to sort them out. Only home sweet home can cure that little problem.

/

One little walk later, I was finally in front of my apartment door. I wanted a place to myself while getting ready for Splatfest and turf wars, so I decided to live in this complex with other like-minded squids. My parents were a little nervous about letting their child live on their own, but after I told them that I wouldn't be far from home, I was like three blocks away from them, they relented under the condition that I wouldn't let my school work slip. So far that deal is going well, and the occasional side job and prize money help me pay my rent.

Entering my home sweet home, I took off my shoes and just fell straight into bed. I was both physically and mentally tired from today. As for the mixed emotions that been bubbling around, I have peace and quiet to think about it. Some confusion, mild sadness, a sprinkle of anger, and a dash of happiness. I mean, it was nice I was able to talk to her even if it was just for a minute, but the suddenness of it all left me reeling.

"Ugh...I wasn't ready for that. Never did I think I'll run into Sashi right after I caught a glimpse of her yesterday."

On the plus side, it was awkward for the both of us so at least I wasn't the only one having trouble what to say. Also, she is definitely nicer than the last time I saw her, but then again we barely chatted at all. I felt like this was a missed opportunity for me to fix a broken bridge, but now I think that chance has passed. Thinking about that invoked a feeling of regret to wash over me. There wasn't much I can do about that now, I needed sleep for tomorrow and tomorrow would bring a new day. I gave a sigh before shutting my eyes and letting dream land take me.

/

Night fell and a new day of training came, but it did not help shake off the thoughts I have yesterday. This actually affected my performance and everybody noticed, which they jumped on during lunch.

"Lavink? Are you okay? You seem kinda distracted today," Inky asked with concern.

"Dah, this is bad. You can't fight with mind in gutter."

"It's an easy way for you to get splatted soldier."

While it was nice to see everyone worry about me, it was also kinda suffocating as I did not know if I should tell them about my encounter or not. It didn't help that Grey was observing me, the squid had a knack for telling if someone was hiding something. I have no doubt in my mind he knew already I was holding something back, but out of respect he did not say anything. I took a deep breath much to everyone's surprise and just came out with it.

"Guys, I ran into Sashi yesterday night," There was a pause, but then I felt Inky wrap her arms around me from behind and held me close.

"Did she say anything bad to you?" There was a protective tone in her voice.

"No, we literally ran into each by accident. After that, we barely held a conversation before she ran off."

"What did you two say to each other?"

"Not much, we just asked how we are doing and about the Splatfest. She's joining but she ran before she can tell me what team she is on."

"That sea witch...it was only a matter of time before she showed her face again. Ooo...I'll make her pay for leaving us all in the dust!"

I was afraid this would happen. Out of all of us in our group, Inky, took Sashi's quote on quote betrayal more personally. She made it her personal mission to destroy her should she appear on an enemy team during a turf war or other game mode. So far she had no luck, but I fear to imagine what would happen should she find her or if they ended up on the same team.

"Inky, watch your anger," Grey spoke out, "If you don't you may end up at lashing at people you care about."

I saw Inky's fist tighten before taking some deep breaths to try and calm herself. It was working if only a little bit, "Yeah, yeah...just thinking about her makes my blood boil!"

"We all still feel soreness when she left us. You are not alone in this, but focusing your wrath on her isn't healthy for you."

"He's right Inky, how about I go get you some tacos to take your mind off of her?" I suggested to her as I pull her into a hug.

"With the special spicy sauce?"

"Yes, with the special spicy sauce."

She cuddled up with me after hearing that, "Thank you, you're the best you know that?"

"I do what I can."

"I love tacos..."

"I know you do."

Inky meltdown disaster avoided, Inkoplis can rest easy for another day as an enraged Inky is something no one wants. Believe me, I bear witness to this once and well...she contributed to the creation of the mercy rule. I still have nightmares once in a blue moon...so much splatting.

/

We got more training done, I decided to take Inky on a date. I mean we are dating after all so when I get the chance to take her out, I take it. I decided to take her for some dinner at this ramen noodle place, I actually never been to these places before but I heard they are quite popular. Granted I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but Inky was into the idea of trying something new together.

Needless to say, chop sticks are hard to use. I think we got a couple of stares as we grew more frustrated trying to grab the noodles with the two wooden sticks. One of the workers eventually came to our table and gave us forks, and a piece of advice.

"Sir, Mam, next time ask for a fork if you can't use chopsticks."

I could feel the embarrassment rise in our faces as we took the forks while muttering a thank you. We ate in peace after that and boy the food was indeed good as advertised, makes me wonder why the restaurant isn't bigger because of it. The décor is nice as well as it had some red snake like dragons across the wall. It was nice to look at, but as my eyes wandered, I noticed a rather familiar person eating alone in one of the corners of the restaurant; it was Sashi.

She was eating alone and unlike me and Inky she was using the chop sticks with expert precision. Despite this, I was able to catch a glimpse of her face and she looked...sad. It was a strange to see her like this as in the past she would usually carry herself with an aura of confidence in public. Only behind closed doors she would drop the act and reveal her actual feelings.

I remember those bittersweet memories, but the one that stood out was the time she broke down in front of me after we suffered a terrible losing streak. She made it seem like it wasn't bothering her in public, but the moment we were alone she broke out in tears and frustration. Although such memories are marred by the fact, she threw it all away for selfish reasons.

"That was fun Lavink! Who knew that noodles in soup would be so delicious?" Hearing Inky broke me out of my stupor and made me smile.

"Well, apparently everyone who came here before us."

We shared a couple of laughs before I pay for the meal and we headed out. However, before we left, I caught a glimpse of Sashi trying to hide her face. She must have noticed us and was doing her best to make sure that we didn't see her right away. Too late for that in my case, but I suppose I should be glad she did so as no doubt Inky would be in a bad mood should she see her. She didn't want to provoke the wrath of Inky and considering we are in a public place, I rather not accidently cause trouble. But before we left the restaurant, I wondered what was going on in her head? I suppose I'll never know as Inky and I exited the establishment and enjoyed the rest of the night.

/

Sometime after eating dinner and just taking in the sights, Inky and I parted ways once again. While I would love to have her live with me, I'm pretty sure both of our parents would disapprove. It was such sweet sorrow, but what can you do? Frankly, even I agree that we are too young to live together. As such, begins my lonely walk back to a little place I call home. As dangerous as it seems for a teenager like me to walk home alone, nothing really bad happens in the streets of Inkoplis. Sure, there may be a few scuffles from disagreements here and there, but nothing bad as murder has ever been reported.

We are all friends here, well saying that is a bit of a stretch, but everyone got along mostly. So, imagine my surprise that on my way home that I overheard a couple of Inklings talking about a big fight going on.

"Dude, I heard there some real intense fight going on in the practice area!"

"Really? Who's fighting who?"

"An old pro who fell from grace vs the leader of the sword fish crew."

"Shoot man, I got to see this."

"Then we better start running!"

I heard of the Sword Fish Crew. They're a great team who are really close with each other, they treat each other as family. I wondered for a bit what could cause the leader himself to start a fight, but then I pondered on the identity of the old pro.

"No...it couldn't be. Could it?"

The more I thought about it the more it made sense. I could have easily just gone home and ignored the situation all together, but for some reason I turned around and ran. I needed to see this, why though is a mystery even for me.

/

Summoning my inner endurance, it took me less than ten minutes to reach the practice area. A crowd as already gathered and made it hard for me to see what was going on, but the splash of orange and cyan told me everything I needed to know. The old pro is indeed Sashi, but even then, I needed to know why this happened. So, I tapped a nearby shoulder of a spectator.

"Hey what's going on?"

"It's the duel of the century dude. The fallen pro Sashi vs the stalwart leader of the S.F.C. Lani!"

"I got that part, but why did this start?"

"You don't know dude? Sashi scared off one of Lani's crew from turf wars forever! Since then, the man wanted to settle the score to avenge his comrade."

"Holy seashells, so who's winning?"

"Lani, dude! The man is unstoppable!"

"Yeah! Heh heh...Sashi..." I muttered her name lowly as I knew this is a product of her actions in the past. I needed to see the action for myself so I started to make my way through the crowd of people. Not many were too happy about this, but no one tried to stop me as I finally got a view of the action.

Needless to say, it was a miserable sight. Sashi was indeed losing according to the makeshift score board. Three to ten, one more point and she would lose, but looking at her face I can tell her heart wasn't in it.

"What's the matter Sashi?! Where is that legendary skill that your old team praised you for?" Lani shouted as he easily dodged Sashi's shots. It's a blaster vs blaster style fight and it was clear that this battle is over. Sashi didn't reply at all to the leader's taunts and was easily splatted on the spot.

The crowd went wild after seeing this, and shortly after she respawned Lani kicked her to the ground and pointed his blaster at her face.

"This is for my friend you evil witch."

I had all I can stand, despite the pain she caused me. It would be even more painful to watch this to happen and not to do anything about it. Pushing through more people and the guys blocking the entrance I ran between the two and blocked the leader from splatting her again.

"The heck? Get out of the way you nitwit!"

"No, you are done man! You won! She lost! This duel is over!"

The inkling stared and growled with anger before putting his blaster away.

"Fine, she isn't worth it anyway. Let's go everyone, the shows over."

There were some complaints in the crowd, but everyone agreed and the large group began to disperse. It didn't take long until eventually me and Sashi were the only ones left in the area. She has yet to move from that spot on the ground, so I turned around and offered her a hand.

"Here, let me help you up."

Wordlessly, she took my hand and I helped her up. She didn't even look at me once she was on her feet. I don't blame her, someone you did wrong a long time ago is coming to your rescue. So many things must be going through head right now.

"So...where do you live?" Real smooth Lavink, you just picked off your ex off the ground and this is the first thing that comes to your mind?

"East...just down the street."

"Oh? Really, okay let's get you home."

No doubt nursing her broken pride, I help escort Sashi to her home. She wouldn't say much along the way, she would just point out which direction should we go in regards where her home is. She lived in an apartment as well and her living space was on the second floor. Once we are at her door, she took out her key and unlocked it. However, she didn't enter her home, not yet. She finally looked up at me and there I saw the tears in her eyes.

"Why? Why did you stop him?"

You was talking about the duel she had with Lani, "Because the battle was done. Anymore would be overkill."

"But I deserved it, after what I did to one of his team mates."

"True...but there was no reason for you to be punished like that. If you asked me, you suffered enough already."

"Why? I hurt you almost in the same way. If anything, I expected you to be glad that I got what I deserved."

"Maybe the first few months of our break up, but not anymore."

"Lavink..."

"Sashi...sorry I need to go home and get some sleep. It's late already I need to put more practice in."

"R-Right..."

"But before I go, remember, you're not a bad person Sashi. You have friends now, what happened, happened and there is no changing that."

"Okay...thanks."

"Take care of yourself Sashi."

That was my last words to her that night as I left the apartments. I think she wanted to say goodbye, but didn't voice it for some reason. Frankly, I'm surprised I talked to her like I did myself.

So, I begin the walk back home and well...this day did not end the way I think it was going to. To be honest, I feel like talking to her may have been a bad idea. Sure, we were able to talk normally to each other, but nothing has been resolved between us as much as I wanted it to be. The Great Zapfish only knows what will be heading my way next after what I did, and well...I'm not looking forward to it.